There’s something absolutely delightful about the freshness of Apple Cranberry Coleslaw. It’s that perfect balance of sweet and tangy, and the crunch? Oh my goodness, it’s like a party in your mouth! I remember making this for a family gathering last summer, and it was a total hit. Every bite reminded us of picnics in the park, laughter, and sunshine. This coleslaw is not just a side dish; it’s a refreshing companion to grilled meats, sandwiches, or even a picnic spread. Trust me, once you try this vibrant mix of apples and cranberries, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious Apple Cranberry Coleslaw. I like to keep it simple and straightforward, so you can get right to the fun part—mixing it all together!

4 cups green cabbage, shredded (the star of the show, giving it that satisfying crunch!)
1 cup carrots, grated (adds a lovely sweetness and beautiful color)
1 cup apples, diced (I prefer a tart variety like Granny Smith for that zing!)
1/2 cup dried cranberries (for a burst of chewy sweetness)
1/2 cup mayonnaise (this creates the creamy base)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for that tangy kick)
2 tablespoons honey (to sweeten things up just right)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t forget to add a pinch of each!)

These ingredients come together beautifully, creating a coleslaw that’s not only tasty but also gorgeous to look at. So, let’s gather them up and get ready to mix!

How to Prepare Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

Getting this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw ready is a breeze! I promise, it’s one of those recipes that feels effortless but tastes absolutely divine. Let’s dive into the steps so you can enjoy this crunchy, refreshing goodness in no time!

Step 1: Combine the Vegetables and Fruits

First things first, grab a large bowl—something big enough to mix everything without a mess. Toss in the 4 cups of shredded green cabbage, 1 cup of grated carrots, 1 cup of diced apples, and 1/2 cup of dried cranberries. It’s like a rainbow in a bowl! Give everything a good stir to combine. I love to use my hands for this part; it feels more personal, and you can really get in there to mix it all up!

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, let’s whip up that creamy dressing that ties everything together. Mix together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of honey, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. I like to whisk it until it’s nice and smooth. The combination of tangy vinegar and sweet honey is just heavenly, trust me!

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

Now, it’s time for the fun part! Pour that lovely dressing over your cabbage mixture and toss everything together until every piece is coated in that creamy goodness. Don’t be shy; really get in there! I often think about how much flavor is being infused into those crunchy veggies with each toss. Yum!

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld and makes the coleslaw even more refreshing. Plus, it gives you a little time to clean up the kitchen, which is always a win!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Refreshing: The combination of crisp cabbage, sweet apples, and tart cranberries creates a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Healthy: Packed with veggies and fruits, this coleslaw is not only delicious but also a nutritious choice that adds color to your plate!
Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip this up in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Colorful presentation: The vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes, and it looks stunning on any table.
Great for gatherings: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a holiday feast, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is always a crowd-pleaser that complements a variety of dishes.

Tips for Success

To make your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw even more amazing, here are some of my favorite pro tips! Trust me, these little tricks can elevate your dish to the next level.

Adjust the sweetness: If you like your coleslaw a bit sweeter, feel free to add an extra drizzle of honey. Taste as you go, and find that perfect balance that suits your palate!
Add some crunch: For a delightful texture, consider tossing in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans. They add a wonderful crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet apples and cranberries.
Try different apples: Experiment with different types of apples! Tart varieties like Granny Smith work well, but sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp can add a different flavor profile. Mix and match for a fun twist!
Make it ahead: This coleslaw can be made a day in advance, which lets the flavors really develop. Just keep it stored in the fridge, covered, until you’re ready to serve.
Customize with spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dressing for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for fall!

With these tips, your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw will be an absolute standout at any gathering. Enjoy the process and have fun experimenting!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw! These values are estimates based on typical ingredients, so keep in mind that actual numbers can vary a bit depending on what you use. Here’s what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 150
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 5mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 2g

With a delightful mix of crunchy veggies and sweet fruits, this coleslaw is not just tasty but also a healthier option for your meals. Enjoy every bite knowing you’re fueling your body with goodness!

FAQ Section

Got questions about Apple Cranberry Coleslaw? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some of the most common queries I hear. Let’s dive in!

How do I store leftover coleslaw?

To keep your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw fresh, simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay good for about 3 to 5 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may separate a bit over time.

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. I promise, it tastes even better after a night in the fridge!

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. It gives a nice creaminess while adding some protein. You can also try a vegan mayonnaise if you want a plant-based alternative!

Can I add other fruits or veggies?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your coleslaw. You could add diced pears for extra sweetness or even some chopped bell peppers for a little crunch. The sky’s the limit, so mix it up based on what you love!

Is this coleslaw gluten-free?

Yes, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is naturally gluten-free, which makes it a great option for gatherings where you want to cater to everyone. Just double-check your mayonnaise to ensure it’s gluten-free if you’re serving those with sensitivities.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got this delicious Apple Cranberry Coleslaw ready to go, let’s talk about how to serve it! Trust me, this crunchy, sweet, and tangy coleslaw is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

Grilled Meats: This coleslaw is the perfect sidekick to grilled chicken, pork chops, or even burgers. The refreshing crunch complements the smoky flavors beautifully!
Sandwiches: Serve it alongside a hearty sandwich or wrap. It adds a delightful texture and flavor contrast, especially with turkey or ham sandwiches.
Picnic Spread: If you’re planning a picnic, this coleslaw is a must! It holds up well and adds a bright, refreshing element to your spread alongside chips, cheese, and fruits.
Tacos: Try it as a topping for fish or chicken tacos! The sweetness from the apples and tanginess from the cranberries make for a fantastic addition.
BBQ Feasts: Whether it’s ribs, pulled pork, or veggie burgers, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw brings a pop of flavor and color to any barbecue feast.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll elevate your meals and impress your family and friends. Enjoy every bite and let the flavors shine!

Apple Cranberry Coleslaw That Will Brighten Your Table

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing mix of apples and cranberries in a crunchy coleslaw.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 cup carrots, grated
1 cup apples, diced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, apples, and cranberries.
In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
Pour dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey.
For extra crunch, add chopped nuts.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 150
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

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